Television station WBCB will begin broadcasting in high definition on Monday

Staff report

YOUNGSTOWN

Television station WBCB, the Valley’s CW, will begin broadcasting in high definition Monday.

Jack Grdic, general manager of 21 WFMJ-TV and WBCB, said he is excited about the development.

The move will “enhance the viewing experience of many of The CW network’s edgy programs that feature high production values,” he said.

Grdic stressed that WBCB in HD will be available free to viewers over-the-air, and to Armstrong cable subscribers on Channel 103. Other WBCB programming that will be seen in high definition includes: “TMZ,” “Dish Nation,” “Community,” “Friends” and, coming this fall, “Mike & Molly” and “TMZ Live.”

WBCB also will broadcast sporting events in HD beginning this fall, including Youngstown State University football road games and the ACC football game of the week, including the Pitt Panthers.

“Technology has evolved to the point where we can provide high-quality HD for WBCB, in addition to 21 WFMJ,” said Bob Flis, chief engineer of the stations.

21 WFMJ-TV began airing NBC network programming in HD in 2003.